Computational Modelling for the Effects of Capsular Clustering on Fracture of Encapsulation-Based Self-Healing Concrete Using XFEM and Cohesive Surface Technique

The fracture of microcapsules is an important issue to release the healing agent for cracks in encapsulation-based self-healing concrete. capsular clustering generated from concrete mixing process considered one critical factors mechanism. Since there a lack studies literature regarding this issue, design cannot be made without appropriate modelling strategy. In paper, effects microcapsule size and on fractured are studied computationally. A simple 2D computational approach developed based eXtended Finite Element Method (XFEM) cohesive surface technique. proposed model shows that have significant roles governing load-carrying capacity crack propagation pattern determines whether will or debonded matrix. higher circumferential contact length, capacity. When it lower than 25% circumference, result greater possibility debonding core/shell ratio (smaller shell thickness), likelihood being fractured.